
The city council honored a Lake Forest police canine, described as “invaluable,” who recently retired following a medical diagnosis.
The Lake Forest Police Department announced last month that Canine Chase had officially retired after years of loyal service with the agency.
“Chase will trade in his badge for a ball, enjoying a peaceful retirement with his handler Officer Mike Hughes and his family,” the police department said.
Since joining the department in April 2019, Chase had been a “vital partner” in keeping Lake Forest safe, police said.
He excelled in human tracking, narcotics detection, building searches and more.
“Whether wagging his tail at a community event or keeping a sharp eye on patrol, Chase was always ready to perform,” Hughes said.
“I’m grateful to the Lake Forest community for their unwavering support of Chase and the LFPD’s K9 Program,” Hughes added.
Police officials previously said they will be working with the Lake Forest Police Foundation to explore opportunities to continue the canine program, “recognizing the critical role K9 officers play in law enforcement.”
“Chase has been an invaluable member of our team, serving with distinction alongside Officer Hughes,” Chief of Police John Burke said.
Burke told Lake and McHenry County Scanner that Chase, who is seven years old, was being retired following a medical diagnosis of Lumbosacral Stenosis.
In addition, Hughes, Chase’s handler, was promoted to sergeant. “[…] we felt it was the right time for Chase to retire,” Burke said.
Chase attended a Lake Forest City Council meeting last week to accept a resolution of appreciation for his contributions to the city.
He assisted 21Â different local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in 119 deployments as well as assisted in 24 arrests and attended 129 canine demonstrations and community events.
“Late last year, Chase traded in his badge for a ball and has been enjoying a peaceful retirement with his handler Officer Mike Hughes and his family,” the city said.